To say that Ben Bedford is a talented singer/songwriter is a significant understatement. A compelling storyteller and a painter with words, he transports the listener to historical and contemporary times and places. Ben’s songs bring these scenes to life almost like short films, tackling diverse subjects including homelessness, the plight of a Confederate soldier’s wife during the American Civil War, the aerial triumphs of Amelia Earhart, the life of Jack London, the murder of Emmett Till in 1955, John the Baptist, the poet Vachel Lindsay and even the 1973 standoff between members of The American Indian Movement and federal agents on the Pine Ridge Reservation.
Folk music fans (including me) love hearing Ben – he’s a fine performer and guitar player with a magnificent voice he suits to sweeping historical ballads and tender love songs. Kari Bedford, Ben’s wife joins in on some songs to provide beautiful harmonies and counterpoint to Ben’s deeper voice. And Ben is a distinguished folk musician carrying on the authentic folk tradition. Rich Warren, host of WFMT-FM Folkstage, included Ben in his list of the 50 most significant singer-songwriters of folk in the last 50 years (http://blogs.chicagotribune.com/news_columnists_ezorn/2010/07/folkies.html), a rather august list of folkies.
I’ve only had a few chances to visit with Ben and Kari at various Folk Alliance conferences but I know you will enjoy meeting these lovely people and they will provide us with a musical treat.
Speaking of treats, please note that this is an afternoon show, so we are planning snacks and sweets for the potluck, rather than a full meal.
http://benbedford.com
https://www.facebook.com/benbedfordmusic
Music at 4 p.m. Potluck and socializing at 3:00 p.m. Please bring snacks or sweets and beverage to share. Wine or beer are welcome. Water, glasses, dishes and silver provided.
For more information and an invitation, please contact Lee by e-mail at windycityhouseconcerts@gmail.com or at 773-334-5776.
Suggested artist donation $20 (All funds go to the musicians.)
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Windy City House Concerts 